If you and your partner are having trouble conceiving, there may be a medical reason behind it. Infertility, the inability to get pregnant after regular sex without birth control, is not always permanent. Going to a doctor can help you determine what is preventing pregnancy and find a viable treatment, or make appropriate lifestyle changes that will allow you to conceive. Here are the most common causes of infertility in both men and women.

Men

Infertility in men is most often caused by problems with sperm. Your sperm may be abnormally formed or slow-moving, leaving them unable to fertilize an egg. Low sperm count can result from excessive drinking or smoking. You might have difficulties producing sperm efficiently due to a genetic defect, infections like HIV, or health issues like diabetes. Extended exposure to heat in spaces like saunas and hot tubs can reduce sperm production as well.

Injuries in the reproductive organs, genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis, or a blockage in the testicles can cause issues with the delivery of sperm. If you are frequently exposed to harmful environmental factors like pesticides or radiation on the job, they could also affect your fertility. Cancer treatments sometimes impair sperm production as a side effect. Male fertility declines with age, so as you grow older, your sperm count lowers.

Women

In women, infertility is frequently connected with problems in the ovaries and fallopian tubes. The inability to ovulate is typically caused by hormonal disorders, especially polycystic ovary syndrome, which prevents the release of the egg.

If your fallopian tubes are blocked by scar tissue from an infection or endometriosis, a condition where endometrial tissue grows outside of the uterus, this can also cause problems with conceiving. Uterine or cervical abnormalities, such as polyps or noncancerous tumors in the uterine wall, can cause blockages that prevent fertilized eggs from entering the uterus.

As with men, lifestyle problems like smoking can affect fertility. Reproductive cancers and their treatments, including radiation and chemotherapy, might make it harder for you to conceive. Once women reach menopause, they will not be able to get pregnant naturally. Primary ovarian insufficiency, also called early menopause, can accelerate this process. The causes of early menopause are largely unknown. However, certain genetic defects and immune system diseases might be linked.

If you are a couple seeking help to start your pregnancy, reach out to the compassionate team at Medical Center Urology. Located in High Point, NC, and serving the Piedmont Triad, this urology specialist offers premium medical care and customized treatments for problems like infertility, prostate cancer, and interstitial cystitis. Their practice is dedicated to addressing your medical concerns and keeping you informed about your health. For a full list of services, visit their website. Call (336) 882-0220 to schedule an appointment.